Important Dates

June Primary Election

The primary elections are critical to determining which candidates will advance to the November general election.

November General Election

September 26 – First presidential debate

October 9 – Second presidential debate

October 19 – Final presidential debate

October 24 – Last day to register to vote

November 1 – Last day to request an absentee ballot

November 8 –Election day

The November general election this year will feature a number of races including the contest for President, congressional seats, a senate seat, numerous state legislative offices, and many more city and county seats.

What to Expect from CAIR

One of CAIR’s key strategies for change is civic engagement, and we work on increasing that in our community in election and non-election years. Some of our staple programs include Muslim Day at the Capitol, which brings hundreds of Muslims to meet their elected officials, the Muslim Youth Leadership Program, which immerses high school students in leadership and legislative training, and regularly working with elected officials and allies to advocate for policies that make California a better state for all of its residents.

Former CAIR-CA Board Chairman Masoud Nassimi said it best when he stated, “as a community that is well educated and integrated, American Muslims have an important role to play in our society’s social and political fabric.”

In the coming year, you can expect the following from the CAIR San Francisco Bay Area office:

Voter registration drives at local masajid

Candidate debates and forums

Information about events and efforts being hosted by our partners

Voter mobilization efforts through social media and phone calling

5th annual Muslim Day at the Capitol

Debate-watching gatherings

Voter guide with recommendations on the ballot measures

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can vote in California?

In order to vote, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and a resident of California. Students with transitional addresses and homeless individuals without addresses are permitted to use their best available address to register to vote.

How do I change my party affiliation?

You will need to re-register to vote to change your party affiliation. You can do so here: Rock the Vote.

Do I need to bring my ID with me to vote?

You do not need an ID card in California to vote, unless you registered online or by mail, did not provide your social security number or driver’s license, and it is your first time voting.

Do I have to vote on everything on the ballot?

You are not required to vote on everything on the ballot.

What if I am told I am not on the voter list?

If you are told you are not on the list of registered voters or there are any other challenges to your right to vote, ask for a provisional ballot. Do not leave the polling location without voting.

How to Get Involved

Attend campaign events for the different candidates in whom you may be interested to learn more about them

Host a debate-watching party at your home or a candidate forum at your community center or masjid

Learn about the issues to ensure you are informed when you go to the polls

Mobilize other voters because studies show people are more likely to vote if their peers encourage them to do so

Register to vote and consider requesting an absentee ballot so you can vote by mail

Write to your local paper or post on social media about the issues that matter to you